CHULA — After five years as Tiftarea Academy Panther head football coach, Marvin Barton informed The Tifton Gazette Wednesday he has resigned from the position. He will remain at the school until the end of the school year.
Barton was 24-30 at Tiftarea. His best season was in 2008 as the Panthers went 9-4 overall, losing in the Class AA semifinals to Memorial Day, 13-11.
According to the statement Barton gave the Gazette, he said his reasons for resigning were to have an "opportunity to seek out other opportunities to pursue in coaching and real estate, as well as a shift in administrative philosophy and direction."
Before Barton coached at Tiftarea Academy he had experience in Tifton as an assistant coach at Tift County High from 1995-99. During his time at Tift County he served as the defensive coordinator for the 1997 Blue Devil team that played for a state championship.
"It has been my privilege to work with the young people of Tift County twice, and it has been a very special experience both times.
"My heartfelt thanks to the community, parents, administration, church family and the very special young men that I have had a chance to coach and teach. I leave with all of those who have added to my life experience, Proverbs 3:5, 6, I know you will find it a great encouragement."
